The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Grab your copy here or subscribe for the full year here.

This edition is a true celebration of versatility – not just in technique, but in mindset. Barbering has never been a one-lane industry, and the features in this issue highlight just how dynamic the modern barber has become.

Cover: L3VEL3 & Drasticart

Our cover star for this edition of BarberEVO is Carlos Pagan aka Drasticart, the L3VEL3 Ambassador for whom the word perseverance is a way of life. This edition, you can dive into his story behind the scenes – the side of Drasticart that we don’t often see.

In the Chair: Mr Official

In this chair this edition, we have one of our newest columnists, Mr Official. Owner of Official Cuts Academy, BaBylissPRO and L3VEL3 Educator, and Booksy Ambassador, Yahia Jaber, AKA Mr Official has a story to tell, and wisdom to share.

Our ‘One to Watch’ this edition is Lili Fades. The JRL Educator, The Cut App Ambassador and owner of Fade Inc in Texas. And our Barber Abroad is Chris Taulanga who will soon be travelling from Canberra, Australia to Chicago, Illinois for the Wahl Professional Global Stage.

Grooming & Shaving

What sets a barber apart from the rest of the hair industry? It is the time-honoured ritual and practice of the traditional shave. But how has the shave evolved over the years? And how are today’s top barbers taking this classic service to the next level? This feature shares it all, featuring shops like Barbour3, Lauren the Legend as well as product launches like BROSH’s new Beard & Shave products.

World of ROLDA

If you flip through this magazine, you will find a surprise fold out from ROLDA . In it, you can learn a little more about the brand history, the team, and their global domination. Also find out more about their new shave and grooming products.

Interiors

Next stop: The Barber Station. As our barbershop of the edition, we check out NYC’s newest subway themed barbershop. In New Jersey we show off Heritage Barbers’ Collins chairs, and hop across the pond to Dean Gleeson’s Japandi styled UK haven.

Business

It’s always important to mind your business. This issue, DL Master Barber shares his first column – talking about the value of pricing, and how to not undersell your skills. We share about the launch of Panasonic’s new THE BARIKAN tools in Anaheim, and new UK-based columnist Hayden Cassidy shares her secrets of marketing.

Long Cuts & Color

As we live in the age of the mullet and the shag, barbers are needing to sharpen their skills in longer hair cutting, as well as understand the opportunities available when you open your eyes to color services. We speak to industry leaders like Andrew Does Hair, Yoshi and the team from Floyds.

The barbering community is mourning the loss of Ian ‘Champ’ Hoyos, a respected figure whose passion, talent, and larger-than-life personality left a lasting impact across the industry.

Known affectionately as ‘Champ’ by friends and colleagues, Ian built a reputation not only for his skill behind the chair, but for his unwavering support of fellow barbers. A familiar face at industry events, competitions, and education sessions, he was admired for his generosity, encouragement, and commitment to helping others grow.

Tributes have poured in from across the barbering world, with many sharing memories of Ian’s infectious energy, sense of humour, and dedication to the craft. For those who knew him, he was more than a barber – he was a mentor, a motivator, and a true ambassador for the industry.

Ian’s influence extended far beyond his own work, inspiring the next generation of barbers and strengthening the sense of community that defines the profession. His passion for barbering, and for the people within it, will not be forgotten.

BarberEVO joins the global barbering community in paying tribute to Ian ‘Champ’ Hoyas. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to live on through the many lives and careers he touched.

Here are some tributes from those who knew Ian ‘Champ’ Hoyos best:

David Foster and Andrew Brewster, co-founders of EVO Media Group: “Ian ‘Champ’ Hoyos represented the best of the barbering community. He supported BarberEVO from the start, connected us with others, and did it all with no agenda – just kindness and belief in people. He put the same energy into charity and his local community, and his impact will be felt for a long time. Rest easy Champ.”

Nate Peterson, founder of Nathersonn: “Ian ‘Champ’ Hoyos was more than a barber. He was a personality, a presence, a family man, and the heartbeat behind Champs Barbers in the heart of London. Proud of his Colombian heritage and deeply rooted in the culture of boxing and community, Champ built more than a shop, he built a home for conversation, confidence and connection. His shop became the home and heartbeat of the community around him. Boxing wasn’t just something he loved, it was how he lived. Discipline. Belief. Heart. The same mindset that wins rounds in the ring was the mindset he brought to the chair every single day. For Champ, barbering and boxing were cut from the same cloth. Precision. Timing. Courage. Confidence. Founding Champs Barbers in the early 2012s, he created a space that reflected his own spirit: bold, welcoming, full of character and lined with boxing memorabilia that told stories of grit and greatness. His chair became a place where worlds met, from everyday locals to high profile figures, all treated with the same warmth and respect. He had a rare ability to make everyone feel important. From picking up his mum’s clippers as a boy and cutting his friends’ hair, to becoming one of the most respected names in barbering, his journey was built on belief and relentless work ethic. He opened multiple shops across London, launched a boxing gym, travelled the world sharing his craft, and even cut hair in places most would never imagine, including London’s NikeTown. But beyond the names and the accolades, Champ’s true legacy lives in the community he built. He championed people as much as he did his craft. He was someone’s biggest supporter, the one who believed in you loudly, the one who pushed you to think bigger. If Champ was in your corner, you felt unstoppable. His team were not just employees, they were family. He invested in them, stood behind them and built a culture of winners around him.”

Byrd Mena, Creative Consultant for Booksy and Wahl Professional: “The one and only Champ was really a champion in the way he lived – real, loving, and powerful in his presence. He brought the world closer just by being who he was. And that kind of legacy doesn’t disappear… long live the Champ.”

Hayden Cassidy, BarberEVO Columnist, Dior UK Grooming Expert, Founder of Croi: “One of the first major trips I went on was to Moscow as an educator. I felt out of my depth, I was still early in my career and felt out of my depth among so many legends but Champ never let me doubt myself and stood by my side. Even before that, he would introduce me to people in the industry and backed me through every opportunity. His barbershop was one of the first places I walked into in London, and some of the people he introduced me to are my best friends now. he did so much for this industry, and seeing others reflect on moments with him are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. His legacy will continue through everyone he mentored but personally, I want to say thank you Champ, for everything.”

College Star – Denman’s Big Blowout Competition is back for 2026, and open for entries NOW.

The competition is easy to enter and comes with a huge cash prize of £1000, PLUS there are cash prizes for tutors who get involved too. Each student just needs to upload their details and four images of their very best blow-dry for the chance to win. Last year the winner was Mollie Dwyer of Wigan and Leigh College.

“Denman is so proud to give the UK College and student community this opportunity. The number of entries last year was staggering, so a big thank you goes to the hard-working college tutors for encouraging their students to enter. Blow-dry skills can transform a regular style into something exceptional and College Star is our way of giving students the incentive to strive for greatness. We can’t wait to see what they create!” said Denman CEO, Kevin McNamee.

Here’s what every College and student needs to know…

How to win: Just upload images of the front, sides and back of one blow-dry look. For full entry requirements and T&C’s please follow the link College Star | Denman Brush – Denman UK.

Competition opens: February 16^th

Competition closes: March 30^th

Winner announced: April 20^th

Prize: £1000 for the student and a hamper of tools valued at £200 for the student’s College department. PLUS £250 for the tutor whose students enter the most number of entries AND £250 for the tutor of the winning student! T&C’s apply.

Phorest Software has officially concluded the Salon Owners Summit 2026, marking a milestone year for the global professional beauty community. Following the theme “Thrive: The Human Experience, Powered by Technology,” the event saw a record-breaking 750 attendees gather at the Royal Convention Centre in Dublin, surpassing the 2025 attendance by 15% and solidifying the Summit’s reputation as the premier global event for salon, spa and clinic leadership.

The two-day intensive was defined by high-energy networking and the exclusive unveiling of the Phorest AI suite designed to enhance human teams rather than replace them.

Innovation Spotlight: Phorest AI – Enhancing the Human Experience

The 2026 Summit served as the launchpad for Phorest’s most significant technological leap to date: the Phorest AI suite. Built on extensive global research and co-created with salon and clinic owners, this suite is designed to solve three core challenges of the modern beauty business: the need for team enhancement over replacement, the desire for trust and control, and the guest’s expectation for instant gratification. By automating administrative tasks – from summarising complex client histories to managing front-desk enquiries – Phorest AI ensures that teams can show up more prepared, more present, and more connected to every client.

“Our goal has always been to return the gift of time to salon, spa and clinic owners, allowing them to focus on the human connection and the artistry of the client experience,” said Ronan Perceval, CEO of Phorest. “Phorest AI isn’t just a tool; it’s an evolution in partnership. By automating admin, we empower our community to move from surviving the daily grind to truly thriving as creative entrepreneurs.” This year’s Summit was a powerful celebration of community, uniting salon owners, industry leaders, and innovators from across the field. Attendees enjoyed a standout experience filled with meaningful connections, shared learning, and collective growth – all set against a backdrop of inspiration and energy.

A Decade of Dublin: The End of an Era

After ten incredible years of hosting the Summit in Ireland’s capital, Phorest announced a major change of scenery for its next chapter. To accommodate the event’s rapid growth and provide a fresh, immersive experience, the Phorest Summit 2027 will move to Killarney, Co. Kerry.

“The energy in the room this year was electric.” continued Ronan Perceval. “Seeing our community grow this year proves that as our numbers increase, so does our ambition. After ten amazing years in Dublin, it’s time for our next chapter. We are so excited to be moving the Summit to the stunning landscape of Kerry in 2027 – it’s the perfect place to continue this journey of growth together.”

The move to the “Kingdom of Kerry” marks a new era for the Summit, trading the cityscape for the world-renowned beauty of Killarney’s lakeside landscapes.

2027 Dates: January 24th & 25th, 2027

Location: Gleneagle INEC, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Don’t miss out on 2027! Secure your spot here – https://www.phorestsummit.com/

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), the largest and most inclusive trade organization representing the professional beauty industry, has announced an expansion and realignment of its Government Affairs team to strengthen industry advocacy at a pivotal moment for licensed professionals nationwide.

As part of this strategic evolution:

Myra Reddy, currently PBA’s Director of Government Affairs, will be elevated to Vice President of Government Affairs, where she will oversee national policy strategy and legislative engagement, ensuring that the voice of the professional beauty industry is heard and represented in public policy.

Kati Rapoza will advance into a newly defined Director of Advocacy and Industry Mobilization role, expanding her leadership across advocacy campaigns, stakeholder communication, and member engagement.

Leslie Roste, a respected policy and safety expert well known for her impactful work with the Future of the Beauty Industry Coalition (FBIC) to develop and promote the Cosmetology Compact, will join PBA as Director of State Relations. In this role, she will help advance multi-state licensure initiatives, including both the Cosmetology and Esthetics Compacts. Her addition strengthens alignment and continuity across industry-wide government affairs efforts.

PBA CEO Leslie Perry emphasized that these changes reflect a commitment to building a unified, collaborative, and highly resourced advocacy structure.

“Our industry is at an inflection point,” said Perry. “As the Cosmetology and Esthetics Compacts continue to accelerate across the country, it is vital that we show up with one coordinated strategy, one voice, and one strong, aligned team. Elevating Myra and Kati, and welcoming Leslie, ensures PBA is positioned to deliver the leadership, expertise, and momentum needed right now.”

Gordon Logan, Chairman and Founder of SportClips and President of FBIC, added: “Over the past three years, I have worked closely with Myra and Kati many long hours on the tip tax credit, and they were tireless in their efforts to push it through. Their expanded roles are very well deserved. Leslie has been instrumental in developing the Cosmetology Compact on behalf of FBIC, and the success to date is due in large part to her efforts. Her move to PBA is well-timed so that she can continue to coordinate compacts for both Cosmetology and Esthetics. Our industry is stronger than ever thanks to the leadership of all three of these ladies.”

The new Government Affairs structure will allow PBA to streamline legislative strategy, increase state-level engagement, strengthen mobilization efforts, and bring clarity and coordination to advocacy around the Compacts and other critical issues affecting licensed professionals.

Roste formally joined PBA on January 2, 2026.

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Unveils the 2026 PBA North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) Finalists

The PBA revealed the Finalists for the 37^th Annual NAHA, presented by JCPenney. Widely regarded as the most prestigious honors in North American professional beauty, NAHA celebrates the artists whose work sets the creative, technical, and cultural standard for the industry.

The 2026 PBA NAHA Finalists represent an extraordinary range of creative vision, technical mastery, and innovation. Across hair, makeup, education, and team-based artistry, these artists have pushed beyond trend to create work that is bold, intentional, and unmistakably forward-looking.

Each Finalist earned their place through months of conceptual development, technical refinement, and creative execution. Submissions were judged anonymously by a panel of industry-leading experts and evaluated on technical excellence, cohesion, originality, and artistic impact.

To be named a PBA NAHA Finalist is to be recognized among the most accomplished professionals in the industry. These artists create work that not only reflects where beauty is today, but signals where it’s going next.

The 2026 PBA NAHA Finalists are:

Avant Garde:
Breanne Gershon,@glam.breanne – nominated for two categories
Chrystofer Benson, @cbensonhair – nominated for two categories + Team category
Erika Fung, @erikafunghair
James Valiant, @jamesvaliant
Michael Pollsinelli, @michael.polsinelli

Barber of the Year:
AROD, @Arod23pr
Carlos Estrella, @Los_cut_it
Carlos Pagan, @Drasticartbarbering
Chris Jimenez, @c.jimenez24
Papiblendzz (Henry Rodriguez), @Papiblendzz

Editorial Stylist of the Year:
Brendnetta Ashley, @edgybgirl
Jamie Wiley, @jamiewileyeditorial – + Team category nomination
Josie Vilayvanh, @josievilay
Maggie Semaan, @maggiesemaan
Ruth Roche, @ruthroche – nominated for two categories

Educator of the Year:
Ashlee Norman, @ashleenormahair
Naeemah LaFond, @naeemahlafond
Nina Tulio, @ninatulio
Sonya Dove, @Thesonyadove
Stephen Moody, @hairmoody

Haircolor:
Breanne Gershon,@glam.breanne – nominated for two categories
Brooke LeMasters, @brookelemastershair
David Vendittelli, @davidvendittelli + Team category nomination
Gilad Goldstein, @myguiltycrown + Team category nomination
Sean Godard, @seangodard + Team category nomination

Haircutting:
Evie Johnson, @contactevie
Genia Church, @GeniaChurch – nominated for two categories
Isabelle Lachance, @isabelle.lachance.oblic
Marylle Koken, @kokentheharlot
Tippi Shorter, @tippishorter – nominated for two categories

Hairstylist of the Year:
Brayden Pelletier, @justbhair – nominated for two categories
Julie Vriesinga, @julievriesinga
Michelle Oliver, @michelleoliverhair
Robin LeChance, @robin_la_chance
Vanessa Whitmarsh, @vwhitmarshhair

Inspiring Salon of the Year:
Bliss Salon and Spa, @BlissSalonAndSpa2020
Genesis Salon and Spa, @genesis_salonandspa
kit. Fort Thomas, @kitfortthomassalon
Matthew Morris Salon, @matthewmorrissalon
Salon Raybon, @salonraybon

International Collection of the Year (*NEW IN 2026):
Carlos Valiente, Spain @carlosvaliente.bycv
Danilo Giangreco, United Kingdom @danilogiangreco_hair
Emma Simmons, United Kingdom @emmasimmonshair
Gianluca Grechi, Italy @gianlucagrechi
Tom Yek, Malaysia @tomyek_decrypt

Makeup Artist of the Year:
Angela Balbon, @mzbartistry
David Maderich, @davidmaderich
Ebony Ivey, @theiveyleaguebeautycollective
Kisha Augustine, @kishaaugustine
Patricia Bailes, @Pbailesmua

Master Hairstylist of the Year:
Allen Ruiz, @allenruizstyle
Anna Pacitto, @anna_pacitto_pure
Cassie Carey, @cassiecarey.hair
David Barron, @barronslondonsalon
Nicole Pede, @nmpede

Student Hairstylist of the Year:
Derek Robinson, no social handle provided
Elin Lien, @elinthebeautician
Madison Jessop, @twixystyling
Mai Nguyen, @maimai.hair22
PJ Hayes, @pj.cosmo

Styling and Finishing:
Brayden Pelletier, @justbhair – nominated for two categories
Carlos Alvarez, @carlos_alvarez_hair
Galyna Poczciwinski, @ufirami
Laura Gunter, @lauragunterbeauty
Ruth Roche, @ruthroche – nominated for two categories

Team of the Year:
1CPR
Jamie Wiley, Joel Torres, Nanette Guild, Vinnie Morey, Dayna Gamba
@jamiewileyeditorial, @joeltorresstyle, @nanette_guild, @theproperorangecounty, @dgcuts

Chrystofer Benson Collective
Chrystofer Benson, Hannah Benson, Lacye Geitgey, Karine Belanger, Chris Jimenez, Erin Hensley            
@haircbc_pro

Team INdustry
David Vendittelli, Marilyn Vendittelli, Natasha Gerschon
@davidvendittelli, @marilynvendittellihair, @styledbybloss

The Upper Hand
Hannah Waters, Soleil Rocha, Jordan Dudley, Zoe O’Day
@theupperhandriveroaks

Ulta Beauty
Gilad Goldstein, Michelle O’Connor, Galyna Poczciwinski, Sean Godard, Beto Sanchez, Janelle Eyre
@myguiltycrown, @michelleoconnorbeauty, @ufirami, @seangodard, @betoloveshair, @jeyre.hair

Texture:
Chrystofer Benson, @cbensonhair – nominated for two categories + Team category
Genia Church, @GeniaChurch – nominated for two categories
Jaimee Harris Smith, @Hairbyjsmith
Jamie Wiley, @jamiewileyeditorial – nominated for two categories
Tippi Shorter, @tippishorter – nominated for two categories

Winners will be revealed during the 37th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards, presented by JCPenney, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Chapin Theater in Orlando, Florida, held alongside Premiere Orlando. The live awards ceremony will bring together leading artists, educators, brands, and industry voices for an evening celebrating excellence at the highest level of professional beauty.

“PBA NAHA honors more than beautiful work. It honors the courage to lead creatively,” said Leslie Perry, CEO of the Professional Beauty Association. “This year’s Finalists demonstrate what happens when mastery, vision, and purpose intersect. Their work challenges convention, raises the bar for our industry, and inspires what’s possible next.”

DermapenWorld has announced the launch of the RE:GEN Roadshow: The Future of Skin & Hair — a nationwide education and networking event that will tour six major U.S. cities this March.

Bringing together global industry leaders in hairdressing, aesthetics and medical science, the RE:GEN Roadshow is designed to empower salon and clinic professionals with the latest breakthroughs in scalp health, fine and thinning hair solutions, and regenerative science-based treatments. The Roadshow offers attendees access to world-class education to elevate client results and business growth.

Attendees will experience a vibrant evening of community, learning, inspiration and connection, with complimentary canapés and drinks plus a Goodie Bag valued at over $300.

A Transformative Event for the Professional Industry

The roadshow will host approximately close to 1000 salon and clinic professionals nationally, with 100+ attendees per city, across Chicago, Atlanta, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami and Dallas, uniting:

• Hairstylists & barbers
• Beauty & aesthetic clinic owners
• Medical aesthetics practitioners
• Trichologists
• Business leaders

Global Experts Headline the Stage

The event is led by internationally respected industry icon:

Tracey Hughes, Global General Manager for EXO-GROW and Hall of Fame Hairstylist.

Guest speakers include:

Andrew Hansford (London, UK) — Medical expert, Trichologist and Global Educator in hair restoration

Corri Marshall (Sydney, Australia) — Co-Founder of Dermapenworld and product innovator

Additional leading Doctors and influential Hairstylists appearing in all cities

World-Leading Innovation Behind the Movement

DermapenWorld is the #1 microneedling company worldwide, operating in 107 countries, supported in the U.S. through distribution partner DP Derm, a key leader in medical aesthetics. With a long-established authority in regenerative skin science, DermapenWorld now expands its expertise into the hair restoration and hairdressing sector through EXO-GROW, bringing new advanced solutions to salon professionals across the country.

Industry Partnerships

The RE:GEN Roadshow is supported by leading industry collaborators including: Ergo Styling Tools, DP Derm and Phorest Salon Software.

Why Attend

“This is more than an event — it’s a movement advancing the future of professional practice and salon haircare. We’re bringing together the latest scientific breakthroughs, real-world education and community to help professionals transform the way they approach skin and hair health,” says Tracey Hughes, Global General Manager, EXO-GROW.

Attendees will walk away with:

• Practical hair loss and scalp restoration education.
• Access to new science-driven innovations shaping the future of the industry.
• Knowledge into new revenue streams to drive tprofitability and how to stay ahead of a rapidly growing multi-billion-dollar hair loss category.
• A deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological impact of hair loss, helping you to better support your clients with empathy and professional care.
• Networking with top experts and peers across hairdressing, beauty, aesthetics and medical fields.

Event Dates

• Chicago March 22
• Atlanta March 23
• Los Angeles March 29
• Dallas March 30
• Miami March 31
• All events 5-9pm

Tickets

Tickets are available now.
Register here: https://hubs.ly/Q03XzJbJ0

America’s Beauty Show returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, April 18-20, 2026, marking its 103rd year as North America’s largest nonprofit beauty event. Built for licensed professionals who take craft seriously, ABS blends advanced education, on-floor discovery, and industry connection under the 2026 theme, THRIVE, with a renewed emphasis on community and professional momentum.

Competitions expand in 2026. Barbers, this is your weekend to sharpen your edge and show what sets your work apart. America’s Beauty Show 2026 brings elevated barber education, pro tools, and serious on-floor discovery to Rosemont, built for artists who care about precision, performance, and modern grooming.

Make time for the BARBER COMPETITION hosted by Chicago’s own Headquarters Barbers on Sunday, April 19, from 2:00 – 5:00pmCST, happening live on the Barbershop Stage. Expect high-level talent and strong technique. Whether you compete or watch, you will leave with fresh inspiration, new approaches you can take straight to the chair, and a deeper connection to your barber community. Enter today.

ENTER THE ABS BARBER COMPETITION HOSTED BY HEADQUARTERS BARBERS

Come see A-Rod, Brea J, Byrd Mena, Ivan Zoot, John Mosley, Jesse Elite, Los Cut It, Tyler Kelbert and more. Expect techniques you can translate directly to the chair, plus forward-looking perspective on what clients are asking for next.

On the show floor, brands span pro hair, tools, and grooming, including BaBylissPRO, L3V3L 3, Andis, Wahl, Stylecraft | Gamma+, Johnny B. Hair Care, Headquarters Barbers, Barber Evo and additional exhibitors alongside major beauty and wellness names. It is a concentrated opportunity to test, compare, and shop with intent, whether you are refining a luxury service menu or upgrading your station essentials.

To enter the Competition, ABS Show Tickets, CC membership, and the Advanced Program Show Guide are now available at AmericasBeautyShow.com.

For more details, visit americasbeautyshow.com and follow on social media.

British entrepreneur and founder of Pall Mall Barbers, Richard Marshall, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List for Services to International Trade, Mentoring and to People with Dyslexia.

Marshall’s journey is one of the most extraordinary transformations in modern British barbering.  Diagnosed with severe dyslexia at the age of five, Marshall struggled to read, write, spell his own name and complete basic tasks such as filling out cheques, for first 10 years of running his business. Undiagnosed ADHD emerged later in life. Expelled from school at 15 with no formal qualifications, navigating entrepreneurship through resilience, observation, and alternative learning methods. Yet he went on to build one of the world’s oldest barbershop brands into a global enterprise with locations in London and New York.

Despite these barriers, Marshall rebuilt his life through practical learning, mentorship, and relentless perseverance — becoming one of the UK’s most respected figures in the men’s grooming, hairdressing, small business and exports sectors.

His work reached national prominence when Prime Minister Rishi Sunak referenced Richard’s story live on television, highlighting his resilience and contribution to British entrepreneurship.

Marshall now advises the UK Government as a member of the Small Business Growth Council, shaping the national agenda for the 5.6 million small businesses that power the UK economy.

Richard says, “I’m overwhelmed to receive an MBE from the King. I hope my story and journey demonstrates that it really is possible to overcome the most difficult of challenges. It’s not easy, and so I focused on a different direction and just grabbed every opportunity with both hands and made sure I learnt everything I could from other businesspeople. And now I like to share my knowledge and expertise with others, showing parents, employers and teachers that having dyslexia and/or being neurodivergent does not mean a restricted future. It’s important to instil ‘can-do’ confidence.”

Richard’s upcoming autobiography will further explore his powerful journey—from classroom humiliation and illiteracy to speaking on global stages, advising ministers inside 10 Downing Street, and leading a heritage brand now celebrating 130 years. The book will provide a blueprint for others, highlighting the potential of social mobility. The release of the book will coincide with the relaunch of the Pall Mall signature men’s grooming product collection.

Kevin Hollinrake MP, Chairman of the Conservative Party and Shadow Minister without Portfolio, said:

“That’s marvellous news — so well deserved. I’m absolutely delighted to see Richard recognised with an MBE. This honour is richly deserved. Richard is a standout example of British entrepreneurship at its best, building successful international businesses while giving back through mentoring and championing people with dyslexia. During my time as Business Minister, I saw first-hand his commitment to small businesses and to helping others succeed. This recognition reflects not just commercial success, but real service to others. Huge congratulations to him and his family.”

Millie Kendall OBE, CEO of the British Beauty Council, said:

“Richard absolutely deserves this honour. He has worked tirelessly with government for many years, helping to raise the profile of the hair and beauty sector and demonstrating the immense value it brings to the UK economy. His contribution has been instrumental in showing policymakers what our industry delivers now — and what it could deliver with stronger, continued government support. Richard is also a powerful ambassador for British business on the global stage, particularly in the United States. His dedication, influence and passion for championing our sector make this recognition incredibly well-deserved.”

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, said:

“Richard’s contribution as an NHBF Board Member has been outstanding. He brings deep expertise, commercial understanding and an authentic connection to a sector with a notably high percentage of neurodivergent and dyslexic individuals. His insight has directly shaped how we communicate with and support our Members, ensuring our messaging is more accessible, inclusive and representative of the realities many face. Richard’s leadership and advocacy have helped drive meaningful change within the industry, and we are delighted to see him recognised with this honour.”

Barbering is built on tradition, craftsmanship, and community – and few embody those values quite like Sid Sottung. This January, Captain Fawcett invites barbers from near and far to gather for a truly special occasion: a one-day celebration honouring Sid’s incredible journey, ahead of his return expedition to the United States.

Taking place on Monday 12th January 2026 at Captain Fawcett HQ in King’s Lynn, this in-person and live-streamed online event promises to be a fun evening for all involved. After years of dedication, education, and adventure in the name of gentleman’s grooming, this is a chance to raise a glass, share stories, and celebrate a legacy that has helped shape the industry.

The day will feature a masterful haircut and shave demonstration, offering attendees the opportunity to learn directly from one of barbering’s most respected figures. Education continues with deeper insight into Captain Fawcett’s product range, alongside the official announcement of new educators, marking an important passing of the torch to the next generation.

Guests will also enjoy behind-the-scenes guided tours of Captain Fawcett HQ, seeing where the magic truly happens, along with photographic opportunities and the unveiling of exciting new social media initiatives. Throughout the day, refreshments and good conversation will flow, with donations gratefully accepted for Make-A-Wish, adding a charitable heart to the celebrations.

For those unable to attend in person, a live broadcast will ensure ambassadors across the globe can still be part of the moment.

Relaxed, celebratory, and rooted in camaraderie, this event is more than a farewell – it’s a tribute to barbering culture, shared knowledge, and the bonds that define the craft. A fitting send-off for Sid Sottung, delivered in unmistakable Captain Fawcett style.

Full details here:

• Date: Monday 12th January, 2026
• Time: 9am
• Location: Captain Fawcett HQ

Tickets for the event can be purchased here. However, if you cannot attend the event, Captain Fawcett will be live-streaming all the fun! Don’t miss out!